Fin's Fish Guide
The Decorated firefish (Nemateleotris decora) is a saltwater fish of the family Microdesmidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Solomon Is., Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Fiji and others
Description
The decorated firefish is a graceful dartfish (Microdesmidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 9 cm and has an elongate, pale body with a purple-red head, a high, flag-like first dorsal fin and purple and red fin accents. It hovers just above sand and rubble bottoms near reefs and darts into a burrow at lightning speed when threatened; it eats zooplankton from the current. The fish is harmless to humans and is popular in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Decorated firefish?
The Decorated firefish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly pink-purple.
Where does the Decorated firefish live?
The Decorated firefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Solomon Is., Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Fiji and others
How big does the Decorated firefish get?
The Decorated firefish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Decorated firefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Decorated firefish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Decorated firefish edible?
Yes, the Decorated firefish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nemateleotris
More from the family Microdesmidae
Want the complete picture on the Decorated firefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Decorated firefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.